Amid the ravaging effects of the drought that has hit most parts of the Country, a farmer from Kinanie area in Athi-river is counting losses after 27 cattle died after he unknowingly fed them poisonous feed.
The herd of over 50 cattle had spent the better part of Monday feeding on green grass plucked along a vegetable farm until the evening when cattle began collapsing before dying.
It took swift intervention by a team of veterinary doctors from Kitengela to save the other herd by administering Atropine and morph.
The vet noted that the grass was contaminated with a harmful pesticide that ordinarily when sprayed on vegetables is supposed to take up to one week before the vegetables are fit for consumption.
Joshua Murkuku was left speechless trying to come to terms with the massive loss and was unable to speak on the matter.
His friend who spoke to K24 Digital stated that they did not read any malice in the incident as it has been a norm for most farmers to feed cattle on weed from the farm.
"The loss is heart wrecking. It is a big loss, especially during this season when farmers have really strived and struggled to sustain their livestock. We do not doubt any ill motive," Murkuku's friend stated.
Patricia Mwanzia, the area assistant chief confirmed that she had received the report and pledged to consequently follow up on the matter.
" I have received the report on the loss of cattle believed to have fed on poisonous feed, "she confirmed.
Farmers have been forced to rely on well-wishers for feeds after the cost of hay skyrocketed to Ksh400 for an 8kg bale. Others have resorted to letting their livestock roam free and feed on garbage to save them from the verge of hunger.
